His most immediate task is to protect a group of recruits that could very well have been the best brought in under former coach Greg Schiano. Though Flood was named to the position after FIU coach Mario Cristobal turned it down today, Flood is held in high esteem by high school coaches and perhaps the most likely of Rutgers' candidates to make the best of a difficult situation.

"Everything that happens with these recruits is probably a lesser case than what would have happened if it hadn’t been Kyle or someone else in-house that was capable," St. Peter's Prep coach Rich Hansen said. "I think in all-honesty he’s probably going to be the best damage control that could be done. At this point, that’s saying a lot because there’s been a lot of damage on a lot of fronts."

By most accounts, the key for the next head coach was having a familiarity with the Northeast, a prior relationship with high school coaches around New Jersey and with recruits. Flood fits that bill.

"Kyle has a long-standing relationship with New Jersey coaches, Northeast coaches. I think he knows the landscape, he doesn’t need a map to get up and down the Turnpike, he knows the players," Hansen said. "He’s been a part of building Rutgers and he’s been a part of the landscape there for a long time. And although he didn’t expect the opportunity, I’m sure he’s going to work to make the most of it and be a tireless worker for their program."

On Thursday night, Don Bosco Prep coach Greg Toal said that a new Rutgers coach had to be named within 48-72 hours to maintain continuity and keep recruits. Though the actual timeline did not meet his, Toal said it may be quick enough.

Still, some casualties may have already been dealt. Devin Fuller, who had Rutgers in strong consideration, has committed to UCLA. Mike Giacone, the tight end from St. Peter's, went on a visit this weekend to Boston College. He will decide between that school and Rutgers.

Darius Hamilton, the standout defensive lineman from Don Bosco, took an already-scheduled official visit to Miami this weekend. He will make his decision Tuesday night.

There is the bright spot that Schiano's staff remains in place for now. Though Schiano was seen as the face of the program, high school players are actually more familiar with the assistant coaches.

"When guys are getting recruited, they’re recruited more by the assistants than they are by the head coach to be honest with you," Toal said. "(Leonte Carroo) felt comfortable with the assistants. I know Leonte is sticking with his decision to go to Rutgers. I think probably a lot of the kids will too."

The final effects of Flood's hiring will be felt Wednesday, National Signing Day. That's when an accurate picture can be ascertained whether his hiring came quickly enough.

"I guess time will tell," Hansen said. "I know people went on visits and you never like kids to go on visits but all of us had to protect our interests and the interests of the players involved. I think time will tell. They have 24-48 hours here on the phone with recruits and to get a relationship rebuilt with them."